The SAM 35 and SAM 36 are general-purpose high vacuum medical suction units designed for use in medical and healthcare facilities, primarily in operating theatres where high vacuum and high flow are required. The SAM 36 model is specifically designed for intra-uterine procedures, featuring a wide bore collection container top with a specimen filter. These units are not intended for field or transport use.

Function Description

The primary function of the SAM 35 and SAM 36 medical suction units is to provide high vacuum and high flow suction for medical procedures. They are equipped with a pump that generates the necessary vacuum, a vacuum gauge (manometer) to monitor and adjust the vacuum level, and fluid collection containers to collect aspirated material. An external filter capsule and an internal hydrophobic filter are crucial components for ensuring safety, hygiene, and pump protection. The units are designed to operate with various collection systems, including autoclavable collection containers and disposable liner systems, offering flexibility in clinical use.

Usage Features

Before Operation: Before operating a SAM suction unit, users must thoroughly read the operating instructions and precautions. It is essential to verify that the voltage supply matches the rating plate on the unit's back. Any transport screws on the underside of the unit must be removed. The unit should always be electrically isolated from the mains power supply before any cleaning, maintenance, or repairs by removing the mains power plug.

Unit Set Up: The desired collection system should be securely connected to the bracket on top of the unit. Patient inlet tubing (multi-fit bubble tubing with an I/D Ø7mm, recommended length 2 meters) should be connected to the patient inlet tube on the collection container top. The unit is then connected to the power supply, ensuring the power cable does not create a trip hazard and the exhaust outlet is clear of obstructions. The unit is switched on by pressing the green rocker switch, which illuminates to indicate operation.

Handling and Environment: Larger SAM suction units are typically designed for installation on a trolley or fitted with lockable wheels for mobility within a facility. Operation must occur within specified ambient conditions: temperature between -5°C and +40°C, and humidity between 30% and 80%. It is critical never to operate the unit in the presence of flammable gases, such as anaesthetic agents, due to explosion risk.

Vacuum Control: The unit features a vacuum gauge (manometer) for setting and monitoring vacuum levels. To achieve the desired vacuum, the patient inlet tubing on the collection container top is occluded, and the vacuum control knob is adjusted (clockwise to increase vacuum) until the required level is indicated on the gauge.

External and Internal Filters: A crucial safety feature is the external filter capsule, which is a sealed, disposable bacterial or hydrophobic filter. This filter ensures 99.9999% bacterial retention and 99.985% particle retention, acting as a barrier against aerosol contamination. External filters are single-patient use and must not be reused or autoclaved, requiring replacement with every patient. An internal hydrophobic filter capsule is also fitted to prevent liquid ingress into the pump, protecting against costly damage and contamination. This internal filter works once and must be replaced immediately if wetted.

Fluid Collection Containers: The SAM units are compatible with SAM 2 and SAM 4 collection systems, both featuring autoclavable Polyester Carbonate (P.E.C.) containers. The SAM 2 system includes an overflow valve that shuts off vacuum when fluid reaches 1750ml, requiring the unit to be switched off and the container replaced. The SAM 4 system has an integral shut-off for overflow protection. All collection containers must be securely mounted during use. An anti-foam agent can be added to reduce frothing, but not for extended storage. Transporting the unit with a full jar is not advised.

Disposable Liner Systems: The units are designed to accept various disposable liner systems, such as VacSax and Abbott Receptal. When using these systems, protection against overflow depends entirely on correct use according to the manufacturer's instructions. For VacSax, the liner is placed in the container, vacuum tubing connected, and patient tubing attached. For Abbott Receptal, the liner is fully extended and secured in the container, with vacuum source tubing connected to the tee connection. In both cases, the unit is turned on to inflate the liner, and after use, the liner is removed for disposal.

Effect of Altitude: Altitude affects vacuum pump performance, leading to a reduction in maximum achievable vacuum/negative pressure level by approximately 3.5% per 300m (1000ft) rise in altitude.

Cleaning Procedure: Before cleaning, the unit must be electrically isolated. Appropriate protective clothing and gloves must be worn due to potential contamination. Solvent-based or abrasive cleaners, or submerging the unit in water, are prohibited. The outside case should be wiped with a clean damp cloth or mild disinfectant solution, following manufacturer's instructions and avoiding excessive moisture.

Transport and Storage: The unit should be transported in its original packaging within specified temperature and humidity ranges. For storage, SAM suction units must be kept in a dry, dust-free, well-ventilated environment, away from direct sun or UV exposure, and protected from ground moisture. For long-term storage (beyond three months), flexible components should be inspected for embrittlement.

Troubleshooting: A troubleshooting guide is provided to address common issues such as no power, pumps failing to run, or weak suction. Solutions include checking power connections, fuses, vacuum system leaks, collection jar status, tubing, and filters. For unresolved problems, contact a qualified engineer or authorized dealer.

Maintenance Features

Daily Procedures: Daily maintenance includes changing the external filter capsule after each day's use, if it becomes wetted by froth, after aspiration of infective material, or before use on a new patient. The collection container should be examined for damage and replaced if necessary. External tubing should be checked for ageing, damage, or contamination and replaced with equivalent tubing (Ø6mm I/D with 3mm minimum wall thickness) as needed.

Monthly Maintenance: Monthly maintenance incorporates daily procedures. The vacuum and flow performance at the collection container top must be checked. With an empty container and maximum vacuum control, the unit is switched on, and the time taken for the gauge to reach 450mm Hg (60 kPa) vacuum is noted (should not exceed 10 seconds). The gauge should stabilize at a maximum vacuum of not less than 590mm Hg (78.7 kPa). Exhaust filters in the exhaust outlet housing must be replaced.

Three Monthly Maintenance: Three-monthly maintenance includes monthly procedures. The unit must be electrically isolated, and the back cover removed. Internal and external tubing should be checked for ageing or wear and replaced if necessary (gauge tubing Ø5mm I/D, min 2mm wall thickness; other tubing Ø6mm I/D, min 3mm wall thickness). The internal hydrophobic filter must be replaced, ensuring correct flow orientation. Internal wiring should be checked for ageing or wear. The mains cable should be examined for damage. After these checks, the back cover is replaced, ensuring not to overtighten fixings (recommended torque 20 cNm). For SAM 2 units, the overflow valve float mechanism is examined for free movement. Finally, vacuum and flow performance are re-checked.

Pump Maintenance (If Required): If pump maintenance is needed, the pump is removed from the unit, and the pump head is detached to examine the diaphragm for wear. The connecting rod is checked for excessive movement. Both pump head nozzles and transfer valves are removed, and valve seats are cleaned. Worn or damaged components are replaced, and the pump is reassembled and re-connected to the internal tubing. Replacement kits are available for pump upgrades.

Replacing the Main Cable: To replace the main cable, the unit must be electrically isolated, and the back panel detached. The brown and blue conductors are disconnected from the terminal block, and the cable is withdrawn. The new cable is fitted through the access hole, and conductors are connected to their respective terminals (Blue to Blue, Brown to Brown), ensuring sufficient cable length between the gland and terminal block. The cable is fitted into the labyrinth, and all conductors are secured as original. Continuity of each circuit is checked before replacing the back panel.

MGE UPS Systems SAM 35 - General Layout

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